Adams Arts Advisory Board Becomes Independent
ADAMS, Mass. — After a vote by the Board of Selectmen on Wednesday, the Adams Arts Advisory Board has become an independent entity from the town.
The board unanimously voted for the separation after the advisory board discussed it at its last meeting. Melissa Silverstein, a recent addition to the advisory board, said this does not mean the panel will sever its relationship with the town.
"My understanding is that the people didn't really understand the implications of the fact that we were part of the town from the beginning," she said. "... We're at a place where we need this to happen in order for us to move forward with our work. We are committed to being a part of this town, helping grow the arts in this town, being representatives for the town in other arts areas. And this is the first step in, hopefully, a lot of great steps."
Town Administrator Jay Green said the move relieves the advisory board from following rules other public boards have to follow, such as the Open Meeting Law.
"Like any good volunteer organization, they need to evolve, they need to be nimble and flexible. And I don't feel the town will be misserved in any way by not having some level of town official involvement with it," he said.
The group plans to continue its work obtaining a state-sanctioned cultural district designation for downtown Adams. Board member George LeMatrie said the change should allow the board to have smaller and more informal meetings and get work done faster.
"I'm glad that you approved this. I think it'll be beneficial to the Arts Advisory Board. I think we'll be able to take more action quicker on our own," he said.
Selectmen Chair John Duval, who noted he was a selectman when the town created the advisory board, said he recognizes the work put in by members of the advisory board. Selectmen Joseph Nowak and Richard Blanchard were also on the board at that time.
"The Adams Arts Advisory Board has really grown, has really engaged in many activities and work in the community, much more than at the time," he said. "So it's the right thing, I agree, it is time to discuss the separation."
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